Mercedes Benz repair: 300E head removal, crankshaft balancer, timing chain cover

Question
Hi, Is it possible to remove the head the 3ltr 1987 300E without removing the front timing chain bottom cover. Also are there any other things to look out for .

Answer
Greetings!
It is possible to take the head off without removing the lower timing chain cover. You will have to remove the upper though. Just put it up on TDC and remove the valve cover. Mark the chain and gears with a bright paint.Also mark the crankshaft balancer! I always use white with a small brush.Knock off the cam gear with a brass hammer or rubber mallet.Let the chain drop down to the rail. Be careful when lifting the head off as it will hit the upper rail and maybe break it. Its all pretty much the same as any import head on the 300e w124. Thanks and i hope this helps, Ricky